Meze—The Cypriot Table
Meze (μεζέ) is not just a meal—it's a way of life. 20 to 30 small dishes arrive in waves at the table, accompanied by bread, wine, and conversation. A meze evening lasts at least 2 hours and is the ultimate culinary experience of Cyprus.
The Typical Sequence
- Dips & Salads: Tahini (sesame paste), Taramosalata (fish roe cream), Tzatziki, Hummus, Talatouri (cucumber yogurt), village bread
- Cheese & Vegetables: Grilled halloumi, olives, pickled capers, Koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), Kolokithakia (stuffed zucchini)
- Sausage & Meat: Loukaniko (coriander sausage), Lountza (smoked pork loin), Pastourma (air-dried beef)
- Main Courses: Sheftalia (minced meat sausages in caul fat), Souvlaki, Kleftiko (oven lamb), Stifado (stew), Moussaka
- Fish (in fish meze): Calamari, Barbouni (red mullet), octopus, shrimp
- Dessert: Loukoumades (honey balls), fresh fruit, Cypriot coffee
A meze menu costs €18–25 per person—an unbeatable value for the quantity and quality. Always order for at least two people.
💡 Tipp
At first, don't eat too much of the appetizers—there are still 20 courses to come! And: At the end, the host will bring a dessert and a zivania "on the house." It's part of the experience.
